The city is named after Lieutenant Colonel William O.Collins, who established a military outpost along the Cache la Poudre River in 1864. The outpost was originally called Camp Collins, and later the town developed around it. Fort Collins is known for its thriving craft beer culture, with over 20 craft breweries within the city limits.

It has earned the nickname "The Napa Valley of Beer." Fort Collins is surrounded by natural beauty, with the Cache la Poudre River running through the city and the Rocky Mountains providing a scenic backdrop. Old Town Fort Collins is a vibrant historic district with charming brick-lined streets, boutique shops, art galleries, restaurants, and live music venues.